Chief of Naval Staff Emmanuel Ogalla has reiterated his commitment to the warfare of all naval personnel and their families, as well as the widows of the deceased personnel.

Speaking at the Christmas Carol and Night of Nine Lessons organised by the Naval Officers Wives Association (NOWA) in commemoration of its 59th Anniversary on Sunday in Abuja, Mr Ogalla said the armed forces will continue to pursue various welfare programmes to ameliorate the conditions of personnel and their dependants.

Mr Ogalla said the carol marked the end of NOWA’s anniversary celebration which was preceded by a day out with the widows; medical rhapsody and distribution of palliatives.

He commended the giant strides so far made by NOWA through programmes and activities as well as the administration of the NOWA schools, which comprises about nine schools.

He saluted the courage, professionalism and sacrifice of the gallant members of the armed forces deployed to all operational theatres across the nation, especially to those who paid the supreme price.

According to him, most of the victims of conflicts are women and children who find themselves abused and displaced, and also atrocities carried out on them.

The NOWA president, Ijeoma Ogalla, said that Christmas reminds everyone of God’s love for humanity by sending his only begotten son to die for the sins of the world.

Ms Ogalla said it was important to recognise that Christmas was not just about merriment but requires all to spend some time reflecting on the essence of the period, which is the love of God for mankind.

She said there was a need to show love and kindness now more than ever, especially in the “world that is filled with greed, hatred, vengeance and hypocrisy.”

(NAN)